Fire testing according to Room Corner Test

Purpose

Fire technical test in a room fire scenario according to e.g. ISO 9705, ISO 9705-1, EN 14390 and FTP Code 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)) Part 10, annex 1. The test evaluates the surface layer's fire properties: heat release rate (kW), total heat release (MJ), smoke production (m²/s). The phenomenon of flashover, flame spread and burning droplets/particles are also recorded visually. If needed, the level of toxic gases can also be measured using FTIR gas analysis equipment.

The main area of use is for example, for cerification under the Marine Directive or for evaluating fire properties of building products that for some reason cannot be tested in their actual design on a small scale, such as thermoplastic materials, joints and materials with large irregularities. Other products can also be evaluated in the method, such as upholstered furniture.

Method

During test, the test sample is mounted on the inside of the room, in the ceiling and on all the walls except for the wall with the door opening. A propane gas burner is located in one of the corners and produces a heat release rate of 100 kW during 10 minutes, and then 300 kW the following 10 minutes. The total test time is 20 minutes. The combustion gases are collected through a hood where heat release rate and smoke production are measured. Flame spread along walls and ceiling are observed visually. If flames emerge from the door opening, flashover has occurred and the test is terminated. The heat release rate at flashover is generally about 1 MW. 

Example of products that can be tested with this method: 

• Building products, mostly surface linings, composite panels etc.

Deliveries

A test report is delivered in English with the results. The report can be used for example, as a basis for a DOP, Declaration Of Performance according to national fire requirements or as a basis for classification according to the Marine Directive.